pH-responsive nanogated ensemble based on gold-capped mesoporous silica through an acid-labile acetal linker

A new pH-responsive hybrid nanogated ensemble has been developed by using acetal group linked gold nanoparticle capped mesoporous silica. The hydrolysis of acetal linker at acidic environment makes the gold nanoparticles work as a gatekeeper to control the release of guest molecules from mesoporous silica under different pH's.